There simply is never an OOPS! God is the most methodical and purposeful Leader and Father! Daniel and His friends, Hannaniah, Azariah and Mishael were taken captive from Israel by Babalonian soldiers, and then they were put into the service of the King–Nebchaduneezer. Unlike the other captives, these young men remained pure and kept holy with what they ate and drank. As a result, God blessed them mightily. At the end of the training, each captive was sent to be interviewed by the King.
In the interviews, it is said that they stood out in the areas of literature and wisdom and that Daniel had a unique understanding of visions and dreams. It was said that they were 10 times better than the magicians and enchanters already in the kingdom. Clearly, these men stood out. At this point, no one knew what a difference these men would have for the nation of Israel and the empire of Babylon. Well, that is not actually accurate…God knew. He prepared these young men. He gifted them and brought them together to impact Babylon and Israel. That preparation started in Israel, continued in their training, and would shape them all the days of their lives.
The same holds true today. The preparation that God started in our youth, continues throughout our lives. We are uniquely situated to carry out our piece of the Lord’s plan. We must remain committed and teachable. We must also be ready to employ all that we have received to honor the Lord and His plan. We must not underestimate what value we each bring to God’s plan. We must also maintain our faith through seemingly dire and dark periods. Remember, each event does shape who and Whose we are. The encouragement we can receive from this is simple–God has a plan. If we will trust Him, He will prepare us and employ us to be a significant part of His plan; and shape our lives and the lives of others!
God Bless You
As for these four youths, God gave them learning and skill in all literature and wisdom, and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams. 18 At the end of the time, when the king had commanded that they should be brought in, the chief of the eunuchs brought them in before Nebuchadnezzar. 19 And the king spoke with them, and among all of them none was found like Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah. Therefore they stood before the king. 20 And in every matter of wisdom and understanding about which the king inquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and enchanters that were in all his kingdom. 21 And Daniel was there until the first year of King Cyrus.
Walking With God 